The Styles Triplets

Chapter 18

I woke up later than usual on purpose. If I slept long enough, I could avoid Mom's interrogation about my date. No questions. No explanations. No lying before coffee.

Dave drove me to school, and I slipped into class just as the bell rang.

"Alex, nice of you to finally join us," Mrs. Simmons said dryly.

I ignored the comment and slid into my seat.

Marcel immediately turned toward me. "Are you okay?"

His concern made something in my chest soften.

"Yeah," I said quietly. "I'm fine. You look nice today, Marce."

His entire face lit up, blush creeping across his cheeks. "T-thanks."

Across the room, Ashley watched us with narrowed eyes. I met her stare head-on. "Can I help you?" I asked coolly.

"No." She smiled thinly and turned back around.

I leaned closer to Marcel. "How was her party last night?"

Marcel looked down at the floor for a minute.
"I...I didn't go."

"Really? Why?"

"It just didn't feel right." he answered.

Tell him.
"Marcel..." My heart started pounding.

"Yeah?"

"I-"

"Did everyone finish their homework?" Mrs. Simmons cut in.

I sighed.

Marcel mouthed, tell me later, before turning toward the board.

---

"So," Marcel said as we stepped into the hallway, "what did you want to tell me?"

Suddenly feeling less confident, I panicked. "You should come over today."

His eyes widened. "Yeah? I'd like that. I'll drive us?"

I nodded, "Yes! Great!"

He grinned. "See you at lunch."

I watched him walk away, nerves twisting in my stomach.

You almost told him.

- - - 

I was digging through my locker when it suddenly slammed shut inches from my fingers.
"What the fuck man?!" I spun around to find Zayn leaning against the lockers.

"What happened last night?" he asked.

Ugh.
"We fought," I said shortly. "I'm mad at him. End of story."

I tried to walk away, but Zayn grabbed my wrist, "What did he do? He's been miserable all day."

"He lied to me about-"
I couldn't say it. Not without admitting how I felt about Marcel.

"About?" Zayn pressed.

"Something important," I said finally. "That's all."

"He's a dumb ass, Alex. You should know this by now. I'm sure he didn't mean to hurt you." Zany chuckled.

"Maybe not, but that doesn't mean I can't be mad at him." I snapped.

He smirked slightly. "You won't stay mad forever."

He walked off before I could respond.

---

At lunch it was painfully awkward! I sat between Marcel and Harry while the rest of the boys filled the table. Edward sat across from me, deliberately avoiding my eyes.